Zanzibar edges closer to magic number of 1 million tourists

WITH the festive season upon us, South African tourists are likely to set Zanzibar, off Tanzania, as a preferred holiday destination, given its picturesque settings and favourable travel climate.

- SIPHO JACK

With direct flights from Johannesburg to Zanzibar in place and visa-free entry for up to 90 days available to South African passport holders, taking in the bush-and-beach attractions of the East African destination has become more alluring.

The development comes at a time when Zanzibar is on the verge of achieving the milestone of one million annual tourist arrivals, which highlights the growing appeal of its hospitality sector.

Government data shows that the islands recorded 743 605 international arrivals by October 31 - up from 736755 visitors - and is expected to real 1 million by the year's end.